03/02/2017

Sweden brings back military conscription in face of growing Russia threat | The Independent

Sweden has decided to reintroduce a military draft for both men and women over security concerns and a growing threat from Russia.

The Nordic country mothballed compulsory military service seven years ago, but military activity in the Baltic region has increased since, in the wake of Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, prompting Sweden to step up military preparedness.

Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist said the left-leaning government is reintroducing the draft because of a deteriorating security environment in Europe and around Sweden.

Under the newly approved plan, at least 4,000 18-year-olds could be called up each year, starting in January.